(New Orleans) — The Musical Arts Society of New Orleans (MASNO) presents the 13th annual New Orleans International Piano Competition and Keyboard Festival, July 22-29 at Loyola University.

The annual event draws some of the most talented pianists from around the world to compete for cash prizes and performance opportunities. Last year’s competition attracted more than 130 applications from 29 different countries. Twelve pianists representing the Republic of Georgia, Italy, Poland, Brazil, Uzbekistan, United States, Russia, and Japan participated in the 2000 competition. Judges and participants for this year’s competition will be announced soon.

The piano competition has steadily grown to a level of international recognition that is drawing audiences from around the country. The 2000 first place winner, Stanislav Ioudenitch, will compete in this year’s Van Cliburn Competition in Forth Worth, Texas.

MASNO’s 20th annual Keyboard Festival will be held concurrently with the piano competition, will recitals by Martin Jones, Fr. Sean Duggin, and others to be announced.

For the third year, the New Orleans Piano Institute will take place during the competition and keyboard festival. Activities include private lessons with distinguished faculty, master classes, special lectures in piano literature and performance practice, and an opportunity to perform in a showcase recital.

This weeklong classical music event is a delight for audiences of all ages. For further information or to participate or purchase tickets, contact Daniel Weilbaecher, Executive Director at 504-895-0700 or at http://www.noipc.org/.